Dahshur Necropolis Cairo
Explore the Red and Bent Pyramids, marvel at early architectural feats, and venture inside ancient tombs at Dahshur Necropolis.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Dahshur Necropolis Cairo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Red and Bent Pyramids, marvel at early architectural feats, and venture inside ancient tombs at Dahshur Necropolis.
"Go only if you are fit enough to bend and go deep inside the Pyramids."
Go Inside the Pyramids
The Red Pyramid has 165 steps inside, and the Bent Pyramid has 225. It's a unique experience if you're fit!
Consider a Guide
Guides offer invaluable historical context and can enhance your understanding of these ancient sites.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Red Pyramid
Dahshur Necropolis
Egypt's third-largest pyramid, known for its reddish limestone and the unique experience of descending deep inside.

The Bent Pyramid
Dahshur Necropolis
A fascinating early pyramid construction with a distinct change in angle, offering a unique architectural glimpse.

Inside the Pyramids
Red and Bent Pyramids
Venture into the chambers of these ancient structures for an immersive and awe-inspiring historical adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds and Heat
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go Inside the Pyramids
The Red Pyramid has 165 steps inside, and the Bent Pyramid has 225. It's a unique experience if you're fit!
Consider a Guide
Guides offer invaluable historical context and can enhance your understanding of these ancient sites.
Reasonable Entrance Fees
Compared to other pyramid sites, Dahshur offers very reasonable entrance fees for foreign tourists.
Less Touristy
Enjoy a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds than the Giza complex.
Tips
from all over the internet
Go Inside the Pyramids
The Red Pyramid has 165 steps inside, and the Bent Pyramid has 225. It's a unique experience if you're fit!
Consider a Guide
Guides offer invaluable historical context and can enhance your understanding of these ancient sites.
Reasonable Entrance Fees
Compared to other pyramid sites, Dahshur offers very reasonable entrance fees for foreign tourists.
Less Touristy
Enjoy a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds than the Giza complex.
Combine with Saqqara
Dahshur is often visited alongside Saqqara, offering a fuller picture of ancient Egyptian burial sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Dahshur Necropolis for its impressive pyramids, particularly the Red and Bent Pyramids, and the unique experience of exploring their interiors. The reasonable entrance fees and fewer crowds compared to Giza are significant draws. Some note it requires a good level of fitness to go inside.
"Go only if you are fit enough to bend and go deep inside the Pyramids. Red Pyramid has 165 steps and bent Pyramid has 225 steps inside. Good thing is the entrance price is very reasonable of 150 EGP for foreign tourist in comparison to all other Pyramids entrance."
nehal jani
"I have to give it five ⭐, even though it may not be as interesting as Saqqara for example. But it's not something you should miss!"
Boris Teodosijević
"It is Egypt, the good and blessed land, the land upon which God Almighty is glorified. It is the land of the Prophets of God, Joseph and Moses. It is the land in which God Almighty planted monotheism. The land of civilization."
essam sayed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Dahshur Necropolis from Cairo typically involves a drive of about 40-50 kilometers south. While Uber is available, it can be unreliable with cancellations. Many visitors opt for a private driver for the day or join a guided tour that includes Dahshur, often combined with Saqqara and Memphis.
Yes, it's possible to visit independently, but it requires more planning. Some travelers have successfully used Uber, though it can be challenging. Renting a car or hiring a driver for the day is a more common and reliable independent option.
These sites are relatively close to each other. If you have a private driver, they will handle the transportation. If you're using ride-sharing apps, you'll need to book separate rides, which can be time-consuming.
Public transport options to Dahshur are limited and not very convenient for tourists. It's generally recommended to arrange private transportation for a more comfortable and efficient visit.
The journey from Cairo to Dahshur typically takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point in Cairo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreign tourists at Dahshur is quite reasonable, often around 150 EGP, making it an affordable option compared to other major Egyptian archaeological sites.
Typically, a single entrance ticket covers access to the Dahshur Necropolis, including both the Red and Bent Pyramids. It's always best to confirm on-site.
Photography is generally allowed at Dahshur, but it's important to be respectful and avoid photographing security or military personnel.
Yes, you can go inside both the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid. Be prepared for steep inclines and narrow passages; it requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Dahshur Necropolis generally follows standard Egyptian archaeological site hours, usually opening around 8 AM and closing around 5 PM. It's advisable to check current hours before your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
While the Red and Bent Pyramids are the main attractions, Dahshur is a royal necropolis, offering a glimpse into ancient Egyptian burial practices and architecture. The surrounding desert landscape also adds to the atmosphere.
Dahshur is generally much less crowded than the Giza pyramids, offering a more peaceful and intimate experience with these ancient monuments.
Yes, if you're interested in pyramid development and want to see impressive structures with fewer crowds, Dahshur is highly recommended, especially if you can't make it to Luxor.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring uneven terrain. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the desert climate.
Absolutely! Venturing inside the Red and Bent Pyramids is a highlight. Be prepared for steep, narrow passages and a good workout.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of both the Red and Bent Pyramids offer stunning photographic opportunities. For unique shots, consider the views from inside the pyramids, though lighting can be challenging.
Taking photos inside can be challenging due to low light and narrow spaces. A good phone camera or a camera with low-light capabilities is recommended.
Drone usage is generally restricted at archaeological sites in Egypt. It's best to avoid bringing drones to prevent issues with authorities.
The unique angle of the Bent Pyramid is best captured from a distance, allowing its distinctive shape to be fully appreciated. The surrounding desert provides a dramatic backdrop.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the pyramids. For interior shots, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod (if permitted) can be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiring a guide who can make the history engaging for children. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. The open desert landscape around the pyramids can also be fun for kids to explore (with supervision).
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Visiting the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid allows for a deep dive into the architectural innovations of the Old Kingdom. The ability to go inside these structures offers a unique, tangible connection to the past that is unparalleled.
🚶 Solo Travelers
While independent travel is possible, arranging transportation can be a key consideration. Hiring a driver for the day or joining a small group tour can be cost-effective and convenient, offering opportunities to connect with other travelers while still maintaining personal freedom.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Red Pyramid: A Masterpiece of Engineering
Visitors can experience the thrill of descending deep into the pyramid's interior. This involves navigating a steep passage, which can be physically demanding but offers an unparalleled sense of history and discovery. The sheer scale of the stones and the architectural precision are truly awe-inspiring.
Unlike the more crowded Giza pyramids, the Red Pyramid often provides a more intimate experience, allowing visitors to truly appreciate its grandeur without overwhelming crowds. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of pyramid building.
The Bent Pyramid: An Architectural Anomaly
This architectural anomaly is believed to be the result of early builders adjusting their plans mid-construction, possibly due to stability concerns or a change in design philosophy. The smooth, angled sides are a stark contrast to the earlier stepped pyramids.
Exploring the Bent Pyramid offers a different perspective on ancient Egyptian engineering. While you can't always go inside as easily as the Red Pyramid, its exterior form is a captivating sight and a key piece in the puzzle of pyramid evolution.
Navigating Dahshur: Practicalities and Tips
Many travelers find that hiring a private driver for the day or booking a guided tour is the most efficient way to visit Dahshur, often combined with other nearby sites like Saqqara and Memphis. This approach minimizes travel hassles and allows for a more focused exploration of the ancient monuments.
When you arrive, be prepared for a physically engaging experience, especially if you plan to go inside the pyramids. The steep passages require a good level of fitness. However, the reward is an unforgettable journey into the heart of these ancient wonders, often with fewer tourists than at Giza.
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